Job Description
Job Description
TITLE: Senior Legislative Associate
ORGANIZATION: National Governors Association
LOCATION: Washington, DC (onsite)
DURATION: Full Time
POSITION STATUS: Exempt
COMPENSATION: A competitive compensation package will be made to the qualified candidate
REPORTS TO: Director, Government Relations
ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND
Founded in 1908, the National Governors Association is the bipartisan organization of Governors from the 55 states, territories and commonwealths. NGA’s mission is to share best practices, address issues of national and state interest, and drive innovative solutions that improve state government and support the principles of federalism.
NGA’s Center for Best Practices is the policy and research arm that helps Governors develop and implement solutions to public policy challenges. NGA’s Government Relations group assists in ensuring the voice of Governors are heard in Congress, and the Executive Branch and NGA’s Communications team collaborates with Governors’ offices to amplify bipartisan messaging and strategy.
Throughout the year, NGA convenes Governors and senior advisors for meaningful discourse, problem-solving and thought leadership.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SENIOR LEGISLATIVE ASSOCIATE
The Senior Legislative Associate will provide high-level operational and strategic support to the Director of Government Relations, offering expertise and leadership in internal operations, cross-functional collaboration, and back-end support for key projects. The Senior Legislative Associate will focus primarily on enhancing division efficiency, fostering strong relationships across the organization, and advising on the development of federal priority strategies and legislative agendas. The Senior Legislative Associate will also play a vital role in managing internal processes and ensuring the smooth execution of key advocacy initiatives while working closely with senior leadership to align division objectives with broader organizational goals. This team member will be expected to be full-time in Washington, DC.
Other important responsibilities of the Senior Legislative Associate include:
- Partner with senior leadership to develop and execute department federal priority strategies that align with NGA’s mission and goals;
- Oversee day-to-day department operations & communications, ensuring seamless workflows and adherence to project timelines;
- Maintain and expand relationships with congressional leaders, federal officials, and key partners to support NGA advocacy efforts;
- Guide and support legislative associates in their professional development, contributing to a cohesive and high- performing team;
- Identify and implement innovative process improvements to optimize operational efficiency and team productivity;
- Provide quality control for all deliverables, ensuring they meet NGA’s standards of excellence.
- Track and document touchpoints with Governors’ staff, federal staff, and other stakeholders as a measure of advocacy efforts;
- Serve as a key liaison for Governors’ offices, ensuring consistent and effective communication;
- Represent NGA at internal and external meetings, conferences, and events;
- Play a pivotal role in planning agendas and managing logistics for major events, including the Winter and Summer Meetings;
- Collaborate with internal departments and external stakeholders to ensure alignment with advocacy goals;
- Develop, refine, and distribute the daily newsletter for Governors’ staff;
- Create informational and advocacy materials such as policy memos, talking points, presentations, and reports to advance Governors’ federal priorities;
- Promote an inclusive, collaborative work environment that encourages cross-functional engagement and innovation;
- Demonstrate commitment to NGA’s mission and goals to effectively support the needs of all Governors;
- Other duties as assigned by the Director, Government Relations.
QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree, preferably in political science, public policy or related field. A minimum of seven (7) years in government relations or a related field, with proven expertise in managing complex projects and fostering collaboration across teams. Experience on Capitol Hill strongly preferred or familiarity and experience with federal legislative process. Experience working with Governors, working in federal or state agencies or non-profit organizations is preferred.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated ability to:
- High degree of integrity and confidentiality in handling and processing information of a highly sensitive and critical nature;
- Strong research and analytic skills;
- Effectively communicate in writing, orally, and social media;
- Support senior leadership, drive strategic initiatives, and mentor junior staff;
- Exceptional organizational and communication skills, with the capacity to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment;
- Proficiency in event coordination and experience with back-end support for large-scale events is a plus;
- Work independently, set priorities and handle multiple issues at the same time;
- Willingness to work weekends and late evenings as needed;
- Collaborate and work in a team environment; and
- Travel, as necessary.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should apply online through NGA’s career site. NGA uses Clear Company, and all information is kept strictly confidential. An application is considered when all required fields are completed. Please include:
- Your resume highlighting your education, experience, and direct transferable skills
- A portfolio of your best work (attach to your candidate profile via Clear Company)
COMPENSATION
Salary Range: $100,000 - $110,000 annually. The salary range represents a good faith estimate of the lowest to the highest salary for this position at this time. The final salary offered will be based on qualifications and experience.
PHYSICAL AND SENSORY DEMANDS
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. NGA is committed to providing a productive and safe environment. To achieve that goal, we conduct background and reference check investigations for all final applicants considered for employment.
WORKING AT THE NATIONAL GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION
NGA staff proudly serve our nation’s Governors daily, and it’s our mission to ensure we offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, to include healthcare and more, designed to support the needs of NGA employees.
NGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to any protected characteristic under applicable law. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.